Phoenix Tap in Whitley Bay welcomes new manager Amanda
Phoenix Tap in Whitley Bay welcomes new manager Amanda

The Phoenix Tap in Whitley Bay has confirmed that Amanda has taken over as its new manager, marking what the pub describes as a “fresh new start” for the Hillhead Road venue.

Regulars rushed to wish Amanda well in the comments beneath the pub’s Facebook announcement, and the new manager is said to be keen to hit the ground running in her first few days in charge.

A busy schedule ahead

The pub looks set to be busy as fans head there to watch England take on Croatia in their latest Nations League game, after beating Czechia earlier in the week. Alongside the football, the pub has promised great drinks deals, games, karaoke and live entertainment.

The announcement post read: “The News you have been waiting for! A NEW CHAPTER AT THE PHOENIX TAP! Please join us in giving a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Amanda, the new manager of The Phoenix Tap, Whitley Bay! We’re delighted to welcome Amanda to the team and excited to see what the future holds. We wish her every success as she begins this new journey with us.”

Customers react

The post signed off with: “Here’s to good times, great drinks, fantastic entertainment, and plenty of laughs,” and customers were quick to respond, with one replying: “Fantastic news! You are exactly what our 'local needs.”

The appointment comes after a difficult year for pubs in the North East, with several well-known venues closing as businesses struggle with higher utility bills and changing going-out habits. The Gold Medal in Gateshead and The Newton in Benton have become Hickory’s Smokehouses, while The Green in Wardley rebranded successfully as Fitzgerald’s.